Finance Manager - Part Time

Company Overview

Our client is a fast-growing SME UK-based distribution business, specialising in the entertainment sector, and are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Finance Manager to join their finance team. The successful candidate will play a key role in managing our financial operations, specifically using Xero, and will take responsibility for the preparation of VAT returns and general financial reporting.

Job Purpose

The Finance Manager will be responsible for the day-to-day financial management of the business, including preparation of monthly management accounts, VAT returns, and overseeing the accuracy of financial records. This role requires a solid understanding of accounting principles, excellent knowledge of Xero accounting software, and a strong grasp of VAT regulations for UK businesses. This is a part-time role and is office based, 30 hours per week over 5 part days (hours can be flexible)

Key Responsibilities

• Management Accounting
  • Prepare and deliver monthly management accounts, including profit and loss, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.
  • Analyse financial performance, identify variances, and provide insight and recommendations to senior management.
  • Assist with budget preparation and forecasting.
  • Manage and review accruals, prepayments, and other month-end processes.
• VAT Compliance and Reporting
  • Take full responsibility for preparing and submitting accurate VAT returns on a quarterly/monthly basis (depending on the business's VAT scheme).
  • Ensure VAT compliance with HMRC regulations and maintain up-to-date knowledge of VAT rules and rates.
  • Liaise with HMRC on any VAT-related queries or investigations.
  • Review and reconcile VAT control accounts and ensure proper VAT coding in the accounting system.
• Xero Management
  • Oversee the day-to-day use of Xero, ensuring data accuracy and consistency across financial records.
  • Reconcile bank accounts, sales, and purchase ledgers.
  • Maintain accurate records of fixed assets and ensure proper depreciation calculations.
  • Generate financial reports from Xero and present them to senior management.
• Financial Control and Reporting
  • Ensure all financial transactions are accurately recorded in compliance with accounting standards.
  • Assist with internal and external audits as required.
  • Manage cash flow, including preparation of cash flow forecasts.
• Additional Duties
  • Provide financial support to various departments, including sales, operations, and procurement.
  • Assist with the development and implementation of financial policies and procedures.
  • Support the Finance Manager/Director in ad-hoc financial projects as required.

Skills and Experience

• Essential
  • AAT qualified (or equivalent) or part-qualified ACCA/CIMA (finalists welcome).
  • Proven experience as a Management Accountant, ideally within an SME or distribution environment.
  • Strong working knowledge of Xero accounting software.
  • In-depth understanding of UK VAT legislation and experience in preparing VAT returns.
  • Excellent Excel skills, with the ability to manipulate and analyse data.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to work to deadlines and manage multiple priorities.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact with both financial and non-financial stakeholders.
• Desirable
  • Experience in a distribution or logistics-based business.
  • Experience with other accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage).
  • Experience of stock accounting
  • Previous exposure to management of payroll (desirable but not essential).